UK Consumers Confused on Reliability of Car Makes

New research released by Direct Line Breakdown reveals the most reliable cars on the UK roads*.

The research shows that rather than expensive top of the range cars, Japanese and Malaysian cars are in pole position when it comes to not breaking down.

However, this is in complete contrast to general consumer opinion.  When asked in research** by Direct Line which car motorists thought most mechanically reliable Volkswagen, Mercedes and BMW topped the poll.

Direct Line’s research shows the top five cars least likely to suffer mechanical breakdown are as follows:

1. Honda
2. Toyota
3. Mazda
4. Nissan
5. Proton 

Direct Line Breakdown commissioned this research to find out if common consumer opinion on many makes of car is borne out by experience.  Direct Line Breakdown offers tailored prices for individual cars so drivers of reliable cars pay less.  Premiums start from just £35 per year.

Emma Holyer, Spokesperson for Direct Line Breakdown, said:

“This research shows how motorists tend to think the more expensive cars are more reliable which isn’t always the case.  Only 1% of consumers thought Protons were trusty whereas it’s actually one of the most reliable cars on the market.

“ We believe that if you drive a reliable car you shouldn’t be paying out for the cost of your recovery agent constantly having to attend call outs for cars more likely to break down.  Its only fair you pay a price that reflects the risk you represent.

“This research on which cars are most likely to breakdown is from our call out records and it shows that consumer beliefs are inconsistent with reality.”

Direct Line was the first major operator to offer tailored pricing on the individual driver, rather than the conventional approach of one price for all.  Motorists switching from the AA and RAC save 20% on average.

Despite the reliability of Japanese and Malaysian cars, the same cannot be said for their drivers.  In fact, Direct Line statistics show that more than half of all breakdowns - across all makes of car - can be attributed to driver fault rather than mechanical so breakdown cover is essential no matter what car you drive.

Direct Line Breakdown cover offers these great benefits:

• Tailored pricing meaning your premium is worked out on you individually  - so if you only do a small number of miles or drive a reliable car, your premium will reflect this
• A network of over 6000 independent recovery agents
• A no callout discount so if the service is not used for a year you will get money off the price of next year’s cover
• Free no call-out discount protection after four claim-free years
• 80% of vehicles fixed at the roadside
• Direct Line breakdown covers the car for any driver
• Choice of five packages to suit all drivers
• Substantial discounts available for existing Direct Line customers
  

For further information please contact:

Emma Holyer/Direct Line Press Office
0845 878 2182 / 07734 433569 /emma.holyer@directline.com
Lindsay Wienand/Direct Line Press Office
0845 878 5816 / lindsay.wienand@directline.com

Notes to Editors:
* Some specialist, classic or sports cars may be excluded, the research is based on vehicles covered by Direct Line Breakdown (over one million customers).

** Research undertaken by YouGov, 26 – 28 April. 2011 adults polled.